Friends of Lookout Tower to Host Salute to the Music and Memories of WWII

CAPE MAY – The Friends of the World War II Lookout Tower present an educational program entitled, “First Annual Veteran’s Day Salute: Music and Memories of World War II.” Members of the public are invited to the program on Sat., Nov. 12, at 1 p.m. at Cape May Lutheran Church, 509 Pittsburgh Ave.
Hear the upbeat sounds of Glenn Miller, Harry James, Benny Goodman, Jimmy Dorsey, Kay Kaiser, Vaughn Monroe and the Andrews Sisters, who gave voice to American exuberance and hope despite seemingly insurmountable odds in the battle for world peace. Two men, Vince Panzano and Jim Rodan, who served in World War II campaigns in Europe, the Mediterranean and the Pacific will discuss their eyewitness accounts to some of the most important events of the 20th century, including D-Day, Sicily, Leyte Gulf, Okinawa and the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay. They will relate encounters with some of the most historic figures of the time, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Prime Minister Winston Churchill and General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Admission is free for Friends and $5 for members of the public. Join the Friends of the World War II Tower and help plan and attend future exciting programs.
Adults attending are asked to bring a young person with them so the group can advance one of its main goals, which is developing in the younger generation an understanding and appreciation of not only Cape May’s important role in World War II, but of the traits of patriotism, loyalty, and self-sacrifice so characteristic of the people of these war years. Upcoming Friends of the World War II Lookout Tower events will be previewed and light refreshments will be served at the program.
The World War II Lookout Tower, located on Sunset Boulevard, was used for spotting enemy ships during World War II and aiming guns to fire on them. MAC restored the tower in 2008-09 and opened it to the public in April, 2009. Family members can honor loved ones through memorial plaques mounted permanently at the site. The World War II Tower is open to the public Saturdays through Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) is a multifaceted not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its residents and visitors. MAC membership is open to all. For information about MAC’s year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit MAC’s Web site at www.capemaymac.org. For information about restaurants, accommodations and shopping, call the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May at 609-884-5508.